Flights to Monterrey, Nuevo León from NT$49,600

If you're not prepared, air travel can be daunting. But there's no need to worry. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a worry-free start to your vacation in Monterrey. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a pain-free travel experience is to be prepared. First up, the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and daily medications. Next, bring items that'll help pass the time, like some electronic gadgets or a good book. It's also wise to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of headphones. Last but not least, don't forget to toss in toiletry items like a toothbrush, lip balm and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and hairspray in your checked luggage. Any liquids or gels in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosol cans, flares and fireworks, are also not allowed.

What to wear on a flight:

• Comfort should be your main priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a sensible option, as are enclosed shoes like sneakers.
• Most travelers have heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of sitting. To lower your risk on board, drink plenty of water, consider wearing compression socks or tights and move your lower limbs often.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well prepared before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Monterrey in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a spectacular start:

• First things first. Your passport and travel documents will need to be inspected by security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• The X-ray machine comes next. Remove anything metal on you that is likely to set off the alarm. This includes items like headphones or earphones, as well as heavy coats or jackets. They'll need to be placed on the conveyor belt for screening.
• Electronic devices like phones and laptops will also have to go through the machine for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online before you know it.
• Remove all gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They usually need to be sent through the X-ray scanner separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-close bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a clever footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked suitcase. They won't be allowed in the cabin.